Trader Joe’s Walnuts Lawsuit (2025 Update)

Trader Joe’s Walnuts Lawsuit Overview

Multiple lawsuits have been filed against Trader Joe’s following a major recall of walnut products due to potential salmonella contamination.

The recalls, which began in March 2024, have affected thousands of consumers across the United States.

The FDA has issued multiple warnings about these products, citing laboratory-confirmed cases of salmonella linked to consumption of the recalled walnuts.

Latest Trader Joe’s Walnuts Lawsuit Updates

• March 19, 2024 – Trader Joe’s recalls specific lots of 50% Less Sodium Roasted & Salted Whole Cashews due to potential salmonella contamination. The recall affects products sold in 16 states, with no illnesses reported. The issue was identified through routine FDA testing during import. Consumers are advised to return the product for a full refund [1].
• March 18, 2024 – Wenders LLC, the distributor for Trader Joe’s, announces a recall of four lots of 50% Less Sodium Roasted & Salted Whole Cashews (SKU 37884) after at least one lot tested positive for salmonella. The affected cashews were sold in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Washington. No illnesses have been reported [2].
• March 17, 2024 – Trader Joe’s confirms the recall of the specific cashew product, emphasizing that no other lot numbers or products are affected. The company urges customers not to consume the recalled cashews and to return them for a refund [3].

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA’s MAUDE (Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience) database:

• 42 cases of salmonella poisoning have been confirmed in connection with the recalled walnut products
• 16 hospitalizations have been reported across 8 states
• No deaths have been reported as of the latest update
• The FDA has classified this as a “Class I” recall, indicating a situation where there is a reasonable probability that the use of the product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death

Trader Joe’s Walnuts Injuries & Side Effects

Consumption of salmonella-contaminated walnuts can lead to salmonellosis, a serious infection with potentially severe complications.

Common side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal Distress: Severe diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting
• Fever and Chills: Moderate to high fever, often accompanied by chills
• Dehydration: Severe fluid loss requiring medical intervention
• Systemic Infection: In rare cases, the infection can enter the bloodstream and affect other organs
• Reactive Arthritis: Joint pain and swelling that can persist for months or years

Do You Qualify for a Trader Joe’s Walnuts Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Trader Joe’s walnuts lawsuit if:

• You purchased and consumed Trader Joe’s walnut products between January 2024 and March 2024
• The product was among those identified in the recall
• You experienced symptoms consistent with salmonella poisoning within 72 hours of consumption
• You sought medical treatment for your symptoms
• You can provide documentation of both purchase and medical treatment

Evidence Required for a Trader Joe’s Walnuts Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, you should gather:

• Purchase receipts or credit card statements showing you bought the recalled product
• Product packaging or lot numbers (if available)
• Medical records documenting your symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
• Documentation of missed work or other financial impacts
• Photographs of any remaining product

Damages You Can Recover

Potential compensation in a Trader Joe’s walnuts lawsuit may include:

• Medical expenses for treatment, hospitalization, and follow-up care
• Lost wages due to time missed from work
• Pain and suffering compensation
• Emotional distress damages
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

Trader Joe’s Walnuts Recall Information

The recall includes multiple walnut products sold at Trader Joe’s stores nationwide:

• Raw California Walnuts Halves & Pieces (16oz)
• Raw California Walnut Baking Pieces (8oz)
• California Premium Walnut Halves (16oz)
• Organic Raw Walnut Halves & Pieces (16oz)

Recall dates: March 20-28, 2024 Lot numbers: Multiple lot numbers affected (see FDA website for complete list) Distribution: Products were distributed to Trader Joe’s stores in 43 states

The recall was initiated after routine testing by the California Department of Public Health detected salmonella in multiple samples.

Statute of Limitations for Trader Joe’s Walnuts Lawsuits

The time limit to file a lawsuit varies by state:

• California: 2 years from the date of injury or discovery
• New York: 3 years from the date of injury
• Texas: 2 years from the date of injury
• Florida: 4 years from the date of injury

These timeframes may be extended in certain circumstances, such as if the injury was not immediately apparent or if the victim was a minor. However, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable statute of limitations.

Related Article: Pistachio Recall Litigation

FAQs

1. How do I know if my Trader Joe’s walnuts were recalled?

Check the packaging for lot numbers and compare them to the FDA recall list. Affected products include Raw California Walnuts Halves & Pieces (16oz), Raw California Walnut Baking Pieces (8oz), California Premium Walnut Halves (16oz), and Organic Raw Walnut Halves & Pieces (16oz) with specific lot numbers purchased between January and March 2024.

2. What should I do if I have symptoms after eating recalled walnuts?

Seek medical attention immediately and inform your healthcare provider about the potential salmonella exposure. Save any remaining product for testing, document your symptoms, and keep all medical records and receipts.

3. How much compensation can I expect from a Trader Joe’s walnuts lawsuit?

Compensation varies widely depending on the severity of your illness, medical expenses incurred, lost wages, and other factors. Some cases may settle for a few thousand dollars, while more severe cases involving hospitalization or long-term health effects could potentially result in six-figure settlements.

4. Is this a class action lawsuit or an individual claim?

Both types of lawsuits are being pursued. A class action has been filed for consumers who purchased the recalled products but experienced minimal or no symptoms. Individual lawsuits are more appropriate for those who suffered significant illness requiring medical treatment.

5. How long does a food poisoning lawsuit typically take?

Most food contamination lawsuits settle within 6-18 months, though complex cases may take longer. Factors affecting timeline include the number of plaintiffs, severity of injuries, and whether the case goes to trial or settles out of court.

6. Can I still file a claim if I threw away the product or receipt?

Yes, though documentation strengthens your case. Credit card statements, loyalty program records, and even witnesses who saw you purchase or consume the product may help establish your claim.

7. Who is liable in a food contamination case?

Multiple parties may be held liable, including the retailer (Trader Joe’s), the manufacturer (Hines Nut Company or Aurora Walnuts), distributors, and quality control companies. Our attorneys will identify all potentially responsible parties.

8. What if I’m uncertain whether my illness was caused by the recalled walnuts?

Medical testing can often determine the specific strain of salmonella, which can be matched to the outbreak strain. Our team works with medical experts to establish this critical causation link.

See all related food poisoning lawsuits our attorneys have covered.

Get A Free Trader Joe’s Walnuts Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries related to contaminated Trader Joe’s walnut products. Most states only allow 2-4 years from the date of injury to file a claim, and this timeframe may be shorter in some jurisdictions.

Our experienced food safety attorneys offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for representation
• Payment only if we win your case or secure a settlement
• Nationwide representation with expertise in food contamination litigation

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek justice and compensation for your suffering. The sooner you act, the better your chances of building a strong case with preserved evidence.

References:

1. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wenders-llc-recalls-trader-joes-nuts-50-less-sodium-roasted-salted-whole-cashews-because-possible
2. https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/trader-joes-nuts-recall-03-2024/
3. https://www.contagionlive.com/view/fda-investigating-multistate-outbreak-of-e-coli-infections-linked-to-organic-walnuts